NIK SIMON'S GAIN LINE: Manu Tuilagi has eye on 2023 World Cup while Love Island producers are set to be left disappointed in their pursuit of Wales lock Christ Tshiunza

• Manu Tuilagi will extend his Sale contract with an eye on the 2023 World Cup
• Sale coach Alex Sanderson hopes the midfielder will be back playing this month 
• Christ Tshiunza is the target of Love Island producers but will reject them
• The Wales player is looking to get back into the squad ahead of the Six Nations

Manu Tuilagi is ready to commit to making the 2023 World Cup by signing another contract extension at Sale.

The 30-year-old centre, whose power is unrivalled in English rugby, is set to take up an option to extend his stay in Manchester for one more season.

The decision means Eddie Jones can continue to build plans around Tuilagi, should he remain fit. He was injured in the autumn internationals when he went off after scoring against South Africa in what was only his third game for England since March 2020 because of injuries.

But Sale coach Alex Sanderson is hopeful the midfielder will be back this month.

Topless Christ on Love Island alert

Love Island producers are set to be left disappointed in their pursuit of Wales lock Christ Tshiunza. 

Scouts from the salacious ITV show are understood to be keen on the 6ft 6in forward after heads were turned by his topless photographs on Instagram. 

However, Tshiunza’s focus is on playing for the Exeter Chiefs and a potential recall for next month’s Six Nations.

Newcastle in the hunt Bath's Tian Schoeman

Cash-strapped Newcastle are in talks to sign South African fly-half Tian Schoeman from Bath. Falcons owner Semore Kurdi has been a dominant voice in reducing the salary cap and promoting young players, but they are keen on the No 10.

Teimana Harrison contemplating move to France 

Northampton back-row Teimana Harrison is considering a move to France. Harrison, who has been capped five times by England, is out of contract at the end of the season and is yet to sign a new deal. 

Steve Diamond set to receive promotion at Worcester 

Steve Diamond is in the frame to become Worcester’s director of rugby after a successful period as a consultant. He has been on an advisory contract at Sixways. Current director of rugby Alan Solomons will leave his post this summer.

Proposed World 12s plans appear doomed

Ambitious plans to launch a World 12s this summer appear doomed. The tournament failed to receive endorsement from World Rugby last year and has not renewed its marketing contract with entertainment agent CSM.